Bicycle sprocket and bicycle sprocket assembly

ABSTRACT

A bicycle sprocket has a rotational center axis, and basically includes a first tooth and a second tooth. The first tooth has a first axial chain engaging width. A first axial chain engaging width is smaller than a first axial spacing of the outer link. Further, the first axial chain engaging width is larger than a second axial spacing of an inner link coupled to an outer link. The second tooth has a second axial chain engaging width. The second axial chain engaging width is smaller than the second axial spacing. The second tooth is formed by deformation of the material.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2015-200837, filed on Oct. 9, 2015, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-018340, filed on Feb. 2, 2016. The entire disclosures of Japanese Patent Application No. 2015-200837 and 2016-018340 are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to a bicycle sprocket, and a bicycle sprocket assembly.

Background Information

A conventional bicycle sprocket is provided to both a crank assembly and a rear wheel. A chain is engaged with the sprocket of the crank assembly and the sprocket of the rear wheel. Accordingly, the rotation of the crank assembly is transmitted to the rear wheel via the chain.

In a chain, inner link plates and outer link plates are alternately coupled together to form a continuous loop. Further, the space between a pair of inner link plates facing each other is formed to be smaller than the space between a pair of outer link plates facing each other. Accordingly, if the sprocket teeth are formed so that the thickness (engaging width) of all of the sprocket teeth are the same, the gap between the outer link plates and the sprocket teeth will be larger than the gap between the inner link plates and the sprocket teeth, in the thickness direction of the sprocket.

In this kind of conventional structure, the engagement between the chain and the sprocket tend to become loose, due to the gap between the outer link plates and the sprocket teeth in the thickness direction of the sprocket. Thus, a sprocket is proposed, which is formed so that the thickness of the teeth that engage the outer link plates is larger than the thickness of the teeth that engage the inner link plates refer to U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0139642).

SUMMARY

Generally, the present disclosure is directed to various features of a bicycle sprocket. In one feature, a bicycle sprocket is provided with a first tooth and a second tooth in which the axial thickness or width of the first teeth is different from the axial thickness or width of the second tooth for increasing a chain holding force between the first and second teeth and the chain.

In some conventional sprockets, the thickness of the teeth that engage the outer link plates is made larger than the thickness of the teeth that engage the inner link plates by cutting the teeth that engage the inner link plates (for example, refer to U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0139642, paragraph [0045]).

In this case, there is a problem that the processing time to form a sprocket increases due to the additional time for cutting the teeth that engage the inner link plates. That is, when producing the above mentioned sprocket, it was difficult to improve the productivity of the sprocket.

The present invention was developed in light of the above-described problem, and one object of the present invention is to provide a bicycle sprocket having high chain holding force and excellent productivity. Further, an object of the present invention is to provide a bicycle sprocket assembly having high chain holding force and excellent productivity.

In view of the state of the known technology and in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, a bicycle sprocket is provided that has a rotational center axis. The bicycle sprocket comprises a first tooth and a second tooth. The first tooth has a first axial chain engaging width. The first axial chain engaging width is smaller than a first axial spacing in the outer link of the bicycle chain. Further, the first axial chain engaging width is larger than a second axial spacing in the inner link, which is coupled to the outer link. The second tooth has a second axial chain engaging width. The second axial chain engaging width is smaller than the second axial spacing. The second tooth is formed by deformation of a material constituting the second tooth.

In the present sprocket, the first axial chain engaging width of the first tooth is smaller than the first axial spacing in the outer link, and larger than the second axial spacing in the inner link. Further, the second axial chain engaging width of the second tooth is smaller than the second axial spacing. Accordingly, the chain can be held securely by the sprocket. Further, since the second tooth is formed by deformation of the material, the productivity of the sprocket can be improved compared to that of the prior art.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can be configured in the following manner as well. The second tooth is formed by press working.

In this case, since the second tooth formed by press working, the productivity of the sprocket can be reliably improved.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can be configured in the following manner as well. The first tooth includes a recess. The recess is formed by press working to minimize interference with the inner link.

In this case, even if the first tooth is disposed between the outer link, excessive interference with the inner link can be avoided by the recess. Further, since the recess is formed by press working, the productivity of the recess can be improved. In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can be configured in the following manner as well. The first tooth includes a recess. The recess is formed by cutting to minimize interference with the inner link.

In this case, even if the first tooth is disposed between the outer link, excessive interference with the inner link can be avoided by the recess. Further, since the recess is formed by cutting, the productivity of the recess can be improved.

In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can be configured in the following manner as well. The first tooth comprises a main body portion and an additional portion. The additional portion is attached to the main body portion to increase a width of the main body portion. The first axial chain engaging width is obtained by attaching the additional portion to the main body portion.

In this case, in the first tooth, since the first axial chain engaging width becomes larger than the second axial spacing, the material of the additional portion can be chosen freely by attaching the additional portion to the main body portion.

In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can be configured in the following manner as well. The additional portion of the first tooth is made of metal. The additional portion is attached to the first tooth by one of bonding, diffusion bonding, swaging and casting.

In this case, since the additional portions of the first tooth are made of metal, the strength and rigidity of the additional portion can be sufficiently ensured. Further, the additional portions can be reliably attached to the first tooth by bonding, diffusion bonding, swaging or casting.

In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can be configured in the following manner as well. The additional portion of the first tooth is non-metallic. The additional portion is attached to the first tooth by one of bonding and integral molding.

In this case, since the additional portion of the first tooth is nonmetallic, ease of molding and weight reduction can be achieved in the additional portion. Further, the additional portion can be reliably attached to the first tooth by bonding or integral molding.

In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can be configured in the following manner as well. Each of the first and second teeth comprises a drive surface that has a contact point where a chain roller makes contact, and a drive surface extension portion that extends in a circumferential direction radially outward from the contact point of the drive surface.

In this case, the drive surface extension portions of the drive surfaces extend in the circumferential direction radially outward from the contact points of the drive surfaces in each of the first and second teeth. Accordingly, the movement of the sprocket chain in the radially outward direction can be reliably suppressed.

In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can be configured in the following manner as well. Each of the first and second teeth comprises a non-drive surface and a non-drive surface extension portion i that extends in the circumferential direction from the non-drive surface to suppress radially outward movement of the chain roller.

In this case, the movement of the chain in the radially outward direction can be reliably suppressed by the non-drive surface extension portions of the non-drive surfaces of each of the first and second teeth.

In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can be configured in the following manner as well. Each of the first and second teeth comprises a drive surface that has a contact point where a chain roller makes contact and a drive surface extension portion that extends in the circumferential direction radially outward from the contact point of the drive surface. Further, a non-drive surface extension portion is formed on the non-drive surface. Each of the first tooth and the second tooth comprises a non-drive surface and a non-drive surface extension portion that extends in the circumferential direction to suppress the radially outward movement of the chain roller.

In this case, the drive surface extension portions of the drive surfaces extend in the circumferential direction radially outward from the contact points of the drive surfaces in each of the first and second teeth. Accordingly, the movements of the chain rollers in the radially outward direction can be reliably suppressed by the non-drive surface extension portions of the non-drive surfaces of each of the first and second teeth.

In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can also be configured in the following manner. The present bicycle sprocket further comprises a shift region configured to shift a chain when shifting gears.

In this case, a bicycle sprocket can be provided, which has excellent chain holding and is capable of gear shifting.

In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can be configured in the following manner as well. The present bicycle sprocket further comprises a metal annular portion, and a non-metal main body portion. A first tooth and a second tooth are provided on the outer perimeter of the metal annular portion. The non-metal main body portion is attached to the radially inner perimeter of the metal annular portion.

In this case, since the sprocket main body portion is non-metallic, the weight of the sprocket can be reduced. Further, since the annular portion, a first tooth, and a second tooth of the sprocket are made of metal, the strength and rigidity of the portion of the sprocket that engages with the chain can be improved.

In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can also be configured in the following manner. In the present bicycle sprocket, the press work described above is forging.

In this case, since the press work is forging, the productivity of the sprocket can be reliably and easily improved.

In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can also be configured in the following manner. The second tooth is formed by press working and a cutting process. The productivity of the sprocket can be improved by also forming the second tooth in this way.

In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can also be configured in the following manner. The second tooth is formed by a first pressing step, a cutting step after the first pressing step, and a second pressing step after the cutting step. The productivity of the sprocket can be improved by also similarly forming the second tooth in a stepwise manner.

In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can also be configured in the following manner. The second tooth comprises a first surface and a second surface. The first and second surfaces are oppositely facing with respect to an axial direction parallel to the rotational center axis. A first pressing step is a process for pressing the first surface of the second tooth. A second pressing step is a process for pressing the second surface of the second tooth. By forming the second tooth teeth in this way, both surfaces (first surface and second surface) of the second teeth can be easily formed. Therefore, the productivity of the sprocket can be improved.

The bicycle sprocket according to another aspect of the present invention can also be configured in the following manner. A cutting step is a step for cutting a protruding portion, which protrudes in the axial direction due to the first pressing step, on the second surface side of the second teeth. By forming the second tooth in this way, the second surface of the second tooth can be easily formed into a shape in the second pressing step. Therefore, the productivity of the sprocket can be improved.

In accordance with an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle sprocket is provided that has a rotational center axis. The present bicycle sprocket comprises a first tooth and a second tooth. The first tooth has a first axial chain engaging width. The first axial chain engaging width is smaller than a first axial spacing in the outer link of the bicycle chain. Further, the first axial chain engaging width is larger than a second axial spacing in the inner link, which is coupled to the outer link. The second tooth has a second axial chain engaging width. The second axial chain engaging width is smaller than the second axial spacing. The first tooth has a substantially octagonal shape as seen from a radially outer side.

In the present sprocket, the first axial chain engaging width of the first tooth is smaller than the first axial spacing in the outer link, and larger than the second axial spacing in the inner link. Further, the second axial chain engaging width of the second tooth is smaller than the second axial spacing. Accordingly, the chain can be held securely by the sprocket.

Further, since the first tooth has a substantially octagonal shape as seen from the radially outer side, excessive interference between the first tooth and the inner link plates can be avoided, and, a tooth-shape for securely holding the outer link plates can be easily formed by press working, such as forging.

In accordance with a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle sprocket is provided that has a rotational center axis. The present bicycle sprocket comprises a first tooth and a second tooth. The first tooth has a first axial chain engaging width. The first axial chain engaging width is smaller than a first axial spacing in an outer link of the bicycle chain. Further, the first axial chain engaging width is larger than a second axial spacing in an inner link, which is coupled to the outer link. The second tooth has a second axial chain engaging width. The second axial chain engaging width is smaller than the second axial spacing. The first tooth comprises an inclined portion configured to minimize interference with the inner link.

In the present sprocket, the first axial chain engaging width of the first tooth is smaller than the first axial spacing in the outer link, and larger than the second axial spacing in the inner link. Further, the second axial chain engaging width of the second tooth is smaller than the second axial spacing. Accordingly, the chain can be held securely by the sprocket.

Further, since the first tooth comprises an inclined portion, even if the first tooth are disposed between the outer link, excessive interference with the inner link can be avoided, and, a tooth-shape for securely holding the outer link plates can be easily formed by press working, such as forging.

In accordance with a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can also be configured in the following manner. The first tooth further comprises a first surface, a second surface and a third surface. The third surface extends in a circumferential direction in between the axial directions of the first surface and the second surface with respect to axial direction that is parallel to the rotational center axis. The inclined portion comprises a first chamfered surface, a second chamfered surface, a third chamfered surface and a fourth chamfered surface.

The first chamfered surface is formed to extend from the first surface to the third surface on the drive side. The second chamfered surface is formed to extend from the second surface to the third surface on the drive side. The third chamfered surface extends from the first surface to the third surface on the non-drive side. The fourth chamfered surface extends from the second surface to the third surface on the non-drive side.

In this case, excessive interference between the first tooth and the inner link plates can be avoided by the first to fourth chamfered surfaces, and, a tooth-shape for securely holding the outer link plates can be easily formed by press working, such as forging.

In accordance with a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can also be configured in the following manner. A first axial direction contact width of where the drive surface of the first tooth makes contact with a chain roller is formed to be of substantially the same length as a second axial direction contact width of where the drive surface of the second tooth makes contact with the chain roller.

In this case, since the first axial direction contact width and the second axial direction contact width are of the same length, the drive force can be stably transmitted from the sprocket to the chain.

In accordance with a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, a bicycle sprocket is provided that has a rotational center axis. The present bicycle sprocket comprises a first tooth and a second tooth. The first tooth has a first axial chain engaging width. The first axial chain engaging width is smaller than a first axial spacing in the outer link of the bicycle chain. Further, the first axial chain engaging width is larger than a second axial spacing in the inner link, which is coupled to the outer link. The second tooth has a second axial chain engaging width. The second axial chain engaging width is smaller than the second axial spacing. At least one of the first tooth and the second tooth comprises a plated layer.

In the present sprocket, the first axial chain engaging width of the first tooth is smaller than the first axial spacing in the outer link, and larger than the second axial spacing in the inner link. Further, the second axial chain engaging width of the second tooth is smaller than the second axial spacing. Accordingly, the chain can be held securely by the sprocket.

Further, since at least one of the first tooth and the second tooth comprises a plated layer, the wear resistance and rust resistance of at least one of the first tooth and the second tooth can be improved.

In accordance with a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can also be configured in the following manner. The first tooth and the second tooth are made of aluminum. The plated layer is a nickel plated layer. In this case, the wear resistance of the first tooth and the second tooth can be improved.

In accordance with a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket can also be configured in the following manner. The first tooth and the second tooth are made of iron. The plated layer is a nickel chrome plated layer. In this case, the rust resistance of the first tooth and the second tooth can be improved.

In accordance with a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket assembly comprises any one of the sprockets described above in the first aspect to the twenty-fourth aspect.

The present sprocket assembly can obtain the same effects as the effects described above in the first aspect to the twenty-fourth aspect.

In accordance with a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket assembly can also be configured in the following manner. In the present sprocket assembly, the sprocket is a single front sprocket.

The same effects as the effects described above in the first aspect to the twenty-fourth aspect can be obtained, even if the sprocket assembly is configured in this way.

In accordance with a twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket assembly can also be configured in the following manner. In the present sprocket assembly, at least one additional front sprocket is provided.

The same effects as the effects described above in the first aspect to the twenty-fourth aspect can be obtained, even if the sprocket assembly is configured in this way.

In accordance with a twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket assembly can also be configured in the following manner. In the present sprocket assembly, the sprocket can be moved along the rotational center axis.

The same effects as the effects described above in the first aspect to the twenty-fourth aspect can be obtained, even if the sprocket assembly is configured in this way.

In accordance with a twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle sprocket assembly can also be configured in the following manner. In the present sprocket assembly, the sprocket is a rear sprocket.

The same effects as the effects described above in the first aspect to the twenty-fourth aspect can be obtained, even if the sprocket assembly is configured in this way.

According to the present invention, a bicycle sprocket having high chain holding force and excellent productivity can be provided. Further, a bicycle sprocket assembly having high chain holding force and excellent productivity can be provided.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now to the attached drawings which form a part of this original disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a front side elevational view of a bicycle crank assembly in accordance with first and second embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a front side oblique view of the first sprocket of the bicycle crank assembly illustrated in FIG. 1 according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a rear side elevational view of the first sprocket according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a partial rear side oblique view of the first and second sprockets according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a partial edge view of the first sprocket and the second sprocket according to the first embodiment, as seen from a radially outer side direction.

FIG. 6 is a front side oblique view of the second sprocket according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the first tooth of the first sprocket and the third tooth of the second sprocket according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a front side view corresponding to the first tooth of the first sprocket and the third tooth of the second sprocket according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a partial front side view of the teeth portion of the first and second sprockets according to another embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a partial edge view of the teeth portion of the first and second sprockets according to another embodiment, as seen from a radially outer side direction.

FIG. 11 is a front side elevational view of the first sprocket according to another embodiment.

FIG. 12A is a front side elevational view of the first sprocket according to another embodiment.

FIG. 12B is a partial cross-sectional view of the first sprocket illustrated in FIG. 12A.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating a forming state of the second tooth and the fourth tooth according to another embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle field from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

First Embodiment

As shown in FIG. 1, a bicycle crank assembly 10 (hereinafter referred to as crank assembly) is illustrated In accordance with a first embodiment. The bicycle crank assembly 10 basically comprises a crank arm 12, a first sprocket 14 (an example of a bicycle sprocket), and a second sprocket 16 (an example of a bicycle sprocket). Further, the first sprocket 14 and the second sprocket 16 are examples of a bicycle sprocket assembly.

In the crank assembly 10, the first sprocket 14 and the second sprocket 16 are front sprockets that are configured to engage with a bicycle chain 2. The second sprocket 16 has fewer teeth than the first sprocket 14. The bicycle chain 2 comprises a plurality of pairs of outer link plates 2 a, a plurality of pairs of inner link plates 2 b and a plurality of chain rollers 2 c. The chain rollers 2 c couple adjacent pairs of the outer link plates 2 a and the inner link plates 2 b.

Crank Arm

The crank arm 12 is integrally and non-rotatably coupled to a crankshaft 19. The crank arm 12 comprises a sprocket attaching portion 20 and an arm portion 22. The arm portion 22 is non-rotatably with respect to the sprocket attaching portion 20. The arm portion 22 is provided integrally with the sprocket attaching portion 20 as a non-separable member, or separately detachable from the sprocket attaching portion 20.

The sprocket attaching portion 20 comprises a plurality (for example, four) of sprocket attaching arms 24. The sprocket attaching arms 24 are disposed in the circumferential direction with spaces therebetween. The intervals of the sprocket attaching arms 24 in the circumferential direction are regular intervals. Here, an example is shown of a case in which the intervals of the sprocket attaching arms 24 in the circumferential direction are regular intervals, but the intervals of the sprocket attaching arms 24 in the circumferential direction can be irregular intervals.

Each of the sprocket attaching arms 24 comprises a first attaching portion 24 a and a second attaching portion 24 b. The first attaching portions 24 a are configured for attaching the first sprocket 14. The first attaching portions 24 a are formed on distal end portions of the sprocket attaching arms 24. Each of the first attaching portions 24 a is, for example, a through-hole. The first sprocket 14 is fixed to the first attaching portions 24 a.

The second attaching portions 24 b are configured for attaching the second sprocket 16. The second attaching portions 24 b are formed on proximal end portions of the sprocket attaching arms 24, radially inward from the first attaching portions 24 a. The second attaching portions 24 b are, for example, blind screw holes. The second sprocket 16 is fixed to the second attaching portions 24 b.

The arm portion 22 is provided integrally with or separately from the sprocket attaching portion 20. Here, the arm portion 22 is formed integrally with the sprocket attaching portion 20. A pedal attaching portion 22 a is provided on the distal end portion of the arm portion 22. A pedal (not shown) can be mounted to the pedal attaching portion 22 a. A coupling hole 22 b is provided to the proximal end portion of the arm portion 22. The crankshaft 19 is integrally and non-rotatably coupled to the coupling hole 22 b.

First Sprocket

As shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the first sprocket 14 comprises a rotational center axis X. The first sprocket 14 comprises a first sprocket body 30 (an example of a main body portion), a first annular portion 31 (an example of an annular portion), a plurality of teeth 32 (an example of a first tooth portion and a second tooth portion), and a pair of first shift regions 34 (refer to FIGS. 3 and 4; an example of a shift region).

The first sprocket body 30 is non-metallic, and made of synthetic resin such as carbon fiber-reinforced resin. The first sprocket body 30 is formed integrally with the first annular portion 31. As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the first sprocket body 30 comprises a plurality (for example, four) of first fixing portions 30 a. The plurality of first fixing portions 30 a are disposed in the circumferential direction with spaces therebetween.

Each of the first fixing portions 30 a is, for example, a through-hole. Each of the first fixing portions 30 a is disposed in an opposing position relative to each of the first attaching portions 24 a. In this state, a first fixing bolt 26 (refer to FIG. 1) is inserted through each of the first fixing portion 30 a and each of the first attaching portion 24 a, and is screwed to a nut member (not shown). With this, the first sprocket body 30 is non-movably fixed to the sprocket attaching arms 24.

The first annular portion 31 is attached to the first sprocket body 30. Specifically, the first annular portion 31 is attached to the outer perimeter of the first sprocket body 30. The first annular portion 31 is made of metal, such as aluminum, titanium, or iron/stainless steel. A plurality of teeth 32 are formed on the outer perimeter of the first annular portion 31.

The plurality of teeth 32 include a first tooth 32 a and a second tooth 32 b as described below. The plurality of teeth 32 are provided to the outer perimeter of the first annular portion 31. Specifically, the plurality of teeth 32 (for example, from a total number of 30 to 60) are disposed side-by-side in the circumferential direction on the outer perimeter of the first annular portion 31. The teeth 32 are formed integrally with the outer perimeter portion of the first annular portion 31. The plurality of teeth 32 are made of metal, such as aluminum, titanium, or, iron/stainless steel.

As mentioned above, the plurality of teeth 32 comprise a plurality of the first teeth 32 a (an example of a first tooth) and a plurality of the second teeth 32 b (an example of a second tooth). The first tooth 32 a and the second tooth 32 b are disposed alternately in the circumferential direction, that is, side-by-side in the circumferential direction.

The first tooth 32 a is formed to be engageable with the outer link plates 2 a. Specifically, the first tooth 32 a is formed to be engageable between the pairs of the outer link plates 2 a in the axial direction. The first tooth 32 a is formed in a divergently tapered shape so that the width in the axial direction gradually becomes smaller toward the radially outer side. The axial direction includes the direction in which the rotational center axis X extends, and the directions that are parallel to the rotational center axis X. The axial direction used here corresponds to the directions that are parallel to the rotational center axis X.

As shown in FIG. 4, the first tooth 32 a preferably comprises a first recess 32 e (an example of a recess). The first recesses 32 e are provided to each corner portion of the first tooth 32 a. The surfaces of the first recesses 32 e that are located on the first side surface 14 a are preferably flush with the surfaces of the second tooth 32 b on the first side surface 14 a. Similarly, the surfaces of the first recesses 32 e on the second side surface 14 b are preferably flush with the surfaces of the second tooth 32 b on the second side surface 14 b.

Here, the first side surface 14 a (refer to FIG. 1) is the front side surface of the crank assembly 10 when mounted on the bicycle. In other words, the first side surface 14 a is an outwardly facing side surface that faces axially outward away from the bicycle frame. Further, the second side surface 14 b (refer to FIGS. 3 and 4) is the rear side surface of the crank assembly 10 when mounted on the bicycle. In other words, the second side surface 14 b is an inwardly facing side surface that faces axially inward towards the bicycle frame. Thus, the second side surface 14 b is located closer to the bicycle frame than is the first side surface 14 a when the crank assembly 10 is mounted on the bicycle.

The first recesses 32 e are formed by press working, such as forging. Here, an example is shown of a case in which the first recesses 32 e are formed by press working. However, the first recesses 32 e can also be formed by cutting.

As shown in FIG. 5, the first recesses 32 e are formed to face the end portion of the inner link plate 2 b to minimize interference between the first teeth 32 a and the inner link plates 2 b. In this way, excessive interference between the first tooth 32 a and the inner link plates 2 b can be avoided by the first recesses 32 e. Further, as shown in FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, by providing the first recesses 32 e to the first tooth 32 a, the first tooth 32 a (excluding the first tooth 32 a 1 and the first tooth 32 a 2 which are for gear shifting) are formed in a substantially + (plus sign) shape, seen from a radially outer side.

Here, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 3, the plurality of first teeth 32 a comprises a plurality (for example, two) of first teeth 32 a 1 configured for gear shifting, and a plurality (for example, two) of first teeth 32 a 2 configured for gear shifting. The first tooth 32 a 1 is configured for downshifting in which the chain 2 moves from the first sprocket 14 to the second sprocket 16. The first tooth 32 a 2 is configured for upshifting in which the chain 2 moves from the second sprocket 16 to the first sprocket 14. The first tooth 32 a 1 and the first tooth 32 a 2 are preferably formed in a substantially T-shape, when seen from a radially outer side, by being provided with the first recesses 32 e as described above.

As shown in FIG. 5, the first teeth 32 a comprise a first maximum axial width W1 (an example of a first axial chain engaging width). The first maximum axial width W1 is the axial width in of the portion where the dimension of the first tooth 32 a is the longest in the axial direction. The first maximum axial width W1 is smaller than a first axial spacing L1 in the pairs of the outer link plates 2 a. Further, the first maximum axial width W1 is larger than a second axial spacing L2 in the pairs of the inner link plates 2 b.

The first axial spacing L1 is the space in the axial direction between the surfaces that face each other of a pair of the outer link plates 2 a. The second axial spacing L2 is the space in the axial direction between the surfaces that face each other of a pair of the inner link plates 2 b.

As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the second tooth 32 b is formed to be engageable with the inner link plates 2 b. Specifically, the second tooth 32 b is formed to be engageable between the pairs of the inner link plates 2 b in the axial direction.

The second tooth 32 b is preferably formed in a substantially − (minus sign) shape, as seen from a radially outer side. The second tooth 32 b is formed in a divergently tapered shape so that the width in the axial direction gradually becomes smaller toward the radially outer side.

As shown in FIG. 5, the second tooth 32 b comprises a second maximum axial width W2 (an example of a second axial chain engaging width). The second maximum axial width W2 is the axial width of the portion where the dimension of the second tooth 32 b is the longest in the axial direction. The second maximum axial width W2 is smaller than the second axial spacing L2 described above. The second maximum axial width W2 is smaller than the first maximum axial width W1.

The second tooth 32 b is formed by processing the second tooth 32 b in the following way, thereby obtaining the above configuration. The second tooth 32 b is formed by deformation of the base material of the teeth 32. Specifically, the second tooth 32 b is formed by press working. More specifically, the second tooth 32 b is formed by forging. Specifically, the second tooth 32 b is formed together with the first recesses 32 e by forging. The second maximum axial width W2 of the second tooth 32 b is set by press working, for example, forging the second tooth 32 b in this way.

The first shift regions 34 are provided for gear shifting the chain 2. The first shift regions 34 are the regions in which the chain 2 engages with the teeth 32 of the first sprocket 14 during an upshifting operation from the second sprocket 16 to the first sprocket 14. Further, the first shift regions 34 are the regions in which the chain engages with the teeth 32 of the first sprocket 14 during a downshifting operation from the first sprocket 14 to the second sprocket 16.

As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, each of the first shift regions 34 comprises a plurality of the first shifting teeth 32 c. Here, the plurality (for example, two) of the first teeth 32 a 1 for gear shifting correspond to the first shifting teeth 32 c. Further, the two of the second teeth 32 b adjacent to each of the first shifting teeth 32 a 1 for gear shifting correspond to the first shifting teeth 32 c.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first shifting teeth 32 c comprise a first guide surface 32 d. The first guide surface 32 d is a surface for guiding the chain 2. The first guide surface 32 d is provided to the first shifting teeth 32 c, on the side of the first surface 14 a (refer to FIG. 2) or on the side of the second surface 14 b (refer to FIGS. 3 and 4) of the first sprocket 14. The first guide surface 32 d is formed concavely, so that the thickness thereof gradually becomes thinner towards the side portion of the first shifting teeth 32 c.

Further, each of the first shift regions 34 preferably comprises a first protrusion 36 a and a second protrusion 36 b. The first protrusions 36 a and the second protrusions 36 b are provided to the first sprocket body 30, and are configured to support the chain 2 during shifting operation. Here, a first pair of the first and second protrusions 36 a and 36 b is circumferentially spaced from a second pair of the first and second protrusions 36 a and 36 b in the circumferential direction of the first sprocket 14.

The first protrusions 36 a are protrudingly provided on the second side surface 14 b of the first sprocket body 30, for guiding the chain 2 to the teeth 32 of the first sprocket 14. For example, the first protrusions 36 a guide the chain 2 to the second tooth 32 b shown by the hatching in FIG. 3. The second protrusions 36 b are protrudingly provided on the second side surface 14 b of the first sprocket body 30, for guiding the chain 2 to the first protrusions 36 a.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, each of the first shift regions 34 comprises a stepped portion 38. The stepped portions 38 are for facilitating the engagement of the chain 2, which is supported by one of the first protrusions 36 a, with the teeth 32 of the first sprocket 14. The stepped portions 38 are provided on the first side surface 14 a, radially inward from the tooth-bottoms of the plurality of teeth 32. Further, the stepped portions 38 are provided to the downstream side in the forward rotation direction R from the first protrusion 36 a. The stepped portions 38 are concavely formed in a substantially triangular shape.

Second Sprocket

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the second sprocket 16 comprises a rotational center axis Y. The rotational center axis Y and the rotational center axis X are concentric. The second sprocket 16 comprises a second sprocket body 40 (an example of a main body portion), a second annular portion 41 (an example of an annular portion), a plurality of teeth 42 (an example of a first tooth portion and a second tooth portion), and a pair of second shift regions 44 (an example of a shift region).

The second sprocket body 40 is made of metal, such as aluminum, titanium, or iron/stainless steel. The second sprocket body 40 comprises a plurality (for example, four) of second fixing portions 40 a. The second fixing portions 40 a are disposed in the circumferential direction with spaces therebetween.

Each of the second fixing portions 40 a is, for example, a through-hole. Each of the second fixing portions 40 a is disposed in an opposing position relative to each of the second attaching portions 24 b. In this state, a second fixing bolt 28 is inserted through each second fixing portion 40 a and each second attaching portion 24 b, and the second fixing bolt 28 is screwed to a nut member (not shown). With this, the second sprocket body 40 is fixed to the sprocket attaching arms 24.

The second annular portion 41 is provided to the outer perimeter of the second sprocket body 40. The second annular portion 41 is made of metal, such as aluminum, titanium, or iron/stainless steel. A plurality of teeth 42 are formed on the outer perimeter of the second annular portion 41.

A plurality of teeth 42 includes a third tooth 42 a and a fourth tooth 42 b as described below. The teeth 42 are provided to the outer perimeter of the second annular portion 41. Specifically, the teeth 42 (for example, from a total number of 20 to 40) are disposed side-by-side in the circumferential direction on the outer perimeter of the second annular portion 41. The teeth 42 are formed integrally with the outer perimeter portion of the second annular portion 41. The teeth 42 are made of metal, such as aluminum, titanium, or, iron/stainless steel.

As mentioned above, the plurality of teeth 42 comprise a plurality of the third teeth 42 a (an example of the first tooth) and a plurality of the fourth teeth 42 b (an example of the second tooth). The third tooth 42 a and the fourth tooth 42 b are disposed alternately in the circumferential direction, that is, side-by-side in the circumferential direction.

The third tooth 42 a is formed to be engageable with the outer link plates 2 a. Specifically, the third tooth 42 a is formed to be engageable between the pairs of the outer link plates 2 a in the axial direction. The third tooth 42 a is formed in a divergently tapered shape so that the width in the axial direction gradually becomes smaller toward the radially outer side.

As shown in FIG. 6, the third tooth 42 a preferably comprises a second recess 42 e (an example of a recess). The second recess 42 e is provided to a corner portion of the third tooth 42 a. The surface of the second recess 42 e that is located on the first side surface 14 a is flush with the surface of the fourth tooth 42 b on the first side surface 14 a. The surfaces of the second recesses 42 e that are located on the second side surface 14 b are flush with the surface of the fourth tooth 42 b on the second side surface 14 b.

The second recesses 42 e are formed by press working, such as forging. Here, an example is shown of a case in which the second recesses 42 e are formed by press working, but the second recesses 42 e can also be formed by cutting.

The second recesses 42 e are formed to face the end portion of the inner link plate 2 b, in the same way as the first recess 32 e described above to minimize interference between the third tooth 42 a and the inner link plates 2 b. In this way, excessive interference between the third tooth 42 a and the inner link plates 2 b can be avoided by the second recesses 42 e. Further, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, by providing the second recesses 42 e to the third tooth 42 a, the third tooth 42 a is formed in a substantially + (plus sign) shape, seen from a radially outer side.

As shown in FIG. 5, the third tooth 42 a comprises a third maximum axial width W3 (an example of a first axial chain engaging width). The third maximum axial width W3 is the axial width of the portion where the dimension of the third tooth 42 a is the longest in the axial direction. The third maximum axial width W3 is smaller than the first axial spacing L1. Further, the third maximum axial width W3 is larger than the second axial spacing L2 in the pairs of the inner link plates 2 b.

As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the fourth tooth 42 b is formed to be engageable with the inner link plates 2 b. Specifically, the fourth tooth 42 b is formed to be engageable between the pairs of the inner link plates 2 b in the axial direction.

The fourth tooth 42 b is formed in a substantially − (minus sign) shape, as seen from a radially outer side. The fourth tooth 42 b is formed in a divergently tapered shape so that the width in the axial direction gradually becomes smaller toward the radially outer side.

As shown in FIG. 5, the fourth tooth 42 b comprises a fourth maximum axial width W4 (an example of a second axial chain engaging width). The fourth maximum axial width W4 is the axial width of the portion where the dimension of the fourth tooth 42 b is the longest in the axial direction. The fourth maximum axial width W4 is smaller than the second axial spacing L2. Further, the fourth maximum axial width W4 is smaller than the third maximum axial width W3.

The fourth tooth 42 b is formed by processing the fourth tooth 42 b in the following way, thereby obtaining the above configuration. The fourth tooth 42 b is formed by deformation of the base material of the teeth 42. Specifically, the fourth tooth 42 b is formed by press working. More specifically, the fourth tooth 42 b is formed by forging. The fourth maximum axial width W4 of the fourth tooth 42 b is set by press working, for example, forging the fourth tooth 42 b in this way.

The second shift regions 44 are provided for gear shifting the chain 2. The second shift regions 44 are the regions in which the chain 2 engages with the teeth 42 of the first sprocket 14 during an upshifting operation from the second sprocket 16 to the first sprocket 14, and the regions in which the chain 2 separates from the teeth 42 of the first sprocket 14 during a downshifting operation from the first sprocket 14 to the second sprocket 16.

Each of the second shift regions 44 comprises a plurality (for example, two) of second shifting teeth 42 c. The second shifting teeth 42 c are provided in the circumferential direction with spaces therebetween. Each of the second shifting teeth 42 c comprises a second guide surface 42 d. The second guide surfaces 42 d are provided on the fourth side surface 16 b (refer to FIG. 6), which is on the opposite side of the third side surface 16 a (refer to FIG. 1), and guides the chain 2. The second guide surfaces 42 d are formed concavely, so that the thickness thereof gradually becomes thinner towards the side portion of the second shifting teeth 42 c.

Here, the third side surface 16 a of the second sprocket 16 is the front side surface of the crank assembly 10 when mounted on the bicycle. In other words, the third side surface 16 a is an outwardly facing side surface that faces axially outward away from the bicycle frame. The fourth side surface 16 b is the rear side surface of the crank assembly 10 when mounted on the bicycle. In other words, the fourth side surface 16 b is an inwardly facing side surface that faces axially inward towards the bicycle frame. Thus, the fourth side surface 16 b is located closer to the bicycle frame than is the third side surface 16 a when the crank assembly 10 is mounted on the bicycle.

Here, an example is shown of a case in which the second shift regions 44 do not comprise the protrusion or recess such as in the case of the first shift regions 34. However, the second shift regions 44 can comprise at least either of a protrusion or a recess.

Shifting Operation in the Crank Assembly

In the crank assembly 10 configured in the way described above, the crank assembly 10 rotates in a forward rotation direction R when an upshifting operation is carried out from the second sprocket 16 to the first sprocket 14 by a front derailleur (not shown). In this state, when the front derailleur moves from a position opposed to the second sprocket 16 to a position opposed to the first sprocket 14, the chain 2 separates from the teeth of the second sprocket 16. Then, the chain 2, supported by one of the second protrusions 36 b, is moved to the radially outer side. Then, the chain 2, supported by one of the first protrusions 36 a via one of the stepped portions 38 of one of the first shift regions 34, is guided to and engages with the teeth 32 of the first sprocket 14.

On the other hand, the crank assembly 10 rotates in a forward rotation direction R when a downshifting operation is carried out from the first sprocket 14 to the second sprocket 16 b front derailleur. In this state, when the front derailleur moves from a position opposed to the first sprocket 14 to a position opposed to the second sprocket 16, the chain 2 separates from the teeth of the first sprocket 14. Then, the chain 2 is guided to the teeth 42 of the second sprocket 16, and engages with the teeth 42.

Second Embodiment

As shown in FIG. 1, a bicycle crank assembly 110 according to the second embodiment is illustrated. The bicycle crank assembly 110 comprises the crank arm 12, a first sprocket 114 (an example of a bicycle sprocket and a second sprocket 116 (an example of a bicycle sprocket). Further, the first sprocket 114 and the second sprocket 116 are an example of a bicycle sprocket assembly.

The configuration of the second embodiment is substantially the same as the first embodiment, except for the configurations of the first sprocket 114 and the second sprocket 116. Accordingly, here, only the descriptions for the configurations of the first sprocket 114 and the second sprocket 116 are given, and the descriptions for the configurations that are substantially the same as the first embodiment are omitted. Meanwhile, configurations omitted here shall be in accordance with the configurations of the first embodiment. Further, configurations that are the same as the first embodiment are given the same reference symbols.

The first sprocket 114 comprises the first sprocket body 30 (an example of a main body portion), the first annular portion 31 (an example of an annular portion), a plurality of teeth 132 (an example of a first tooth portion and a second tooth portion) and a pair of the first shift regions 34 (an example of a shift region).

Here, the configuration of the first sprocket body 30, the configuration of the first annular portion 31, and the configuration of the first shift region 34 are substantially the same as the configurations of the first embodiment, and thus the descriptions thereof are omitted. Further, regarding the configuration of the plurality of teeth 132, only the configurations that are different from the configurations of the first embodiment will be described below.

As shown in FIG. 7, each of the plurality of first teeth 132 a (an example of the first tooth) included in the plurality of teeth 132 comprises a first main body portion 132 ab, the first recesses 32 e and a first additional portion 132 c. The first recesses 32 e are configured in the same way as in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

The first main body portion 132 ab is provided to the first annular portion 31. Specifically, the first main body portion 132 ab is integrally formed with the first annular portion 31 so as to protrude radially outward from the first annular portion 31. The first main body portion 132 ab comprises a front surface 20 a and a back surface 20 b. The back surface 20 b is a surface on the opposite side of the front surface 20 a in the axial direction of the rotational center axis X.

The first additional portion 132 c is attached to the first main body portion 132 ab to expand the width of the first main body portion 132 ab. Specifically, the first additional portion 132 c is attached on each of the front surface 20 a and the back surface 20 b of the first main body portion 132 ab. A first maximum axial width W1 is set to a prescribed width by attaching the first additional portion 132 c to each of the front surface 20 a and the back surface 20 b of the first main body portion 132 ab in this manner. The first additional portion 132 c is made of metal, such as aluminum, titanium, or iron/stainless steel. This first additional portion 132 c is attached to the first tooth 132 a by bonding, diffusion bonding, swaging or casting.

Here, an example is shown in which the first additional portion 132 c is attached to each of the front surface 20 a and the back surface 20 b of the first main body portion 132 ab. Instead of this, the first maximum axial width W1 can be set by attaching the first additional portion 132 c to only the front surface 20 a, or, only the back surface 20 b, of the first main body portion 132 ab.

The second sprocket 116 comprises the second sprocket body 40 (an example of a main body portion), the second annular portion 41 (an example of an annular portion), a plurality of teeth 142 (an example of a first tooth portion and a second tooth portion), and a pair of second shift regions 44 (an example of a shift region).

Here, the configuration of the second sprocket body 40, the configuration of the second annular portion 41, and the configuration of the second shift region 44 are substantially the same as the configurations of the first embodiment, and thus the descriptions thereof are omitted. Further, regarding the configuration of the plurality of teeth 142, only the configurations that are different from the configurations of the first embodiment will be described below.

Further, the teeth 142 include a plurality of third teeth 142 a. Each of the third teeth 142 a (examples of the first tooth) comprises a second main body portion 142 b, and a second additional portion 142 c. The configurations of the second main body portions 142 b and the second additional portions 142 c are substantially the same as the configurations of the above-described first main body portions 132 ab and the first additional portions 132 c. That is, the third maximum axial width W3 is set to a prescribed width by attaching the second additional portions 142 c to each of the front surface 20 a and the back surface 20 b of the second main body portions 142 b.

Other Embodiments

One embodiment of the present invention was described above, however the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, the various embodiments and modified examples described in the present Specification can be freely combined according to necessity.

In the first and second embodiments, two front sprockets 14 and 16 (114, 116) were shown as an example of a bicycle sprocket assembly, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The present invention can be applied to a bicycle sprocket assembly provided with a single front sprocket that does not comprise a shift region.

(b) In the first and second embodiments, a case in which the second sprocket body 40 and the plurality of teeth 42 or 142 are formed integrally was shown as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The second sprocket body 40 can be a separate body from the plurality of teeth 42 or 142. For example, the plurality of teeth 42 or 142 can be made of metal, while the second sprocket body 40 can be made of non-metal. In this case, weight reduction can be achieved by using aluminum, titanium, or iron/stainless steel for the metal, and synthetic resins such as carbon fiber-reinforced resin for the non-metal.

(c) The portion in which the first tooth 32 a or 132 a and the second tooth 32 b engage with the chain roller 2 c, and the portion in which the third tooth 42 a or 142 a and the fourth tooth 42 b engage with the chain roller 2 c, in the first and second embodiments, can be configured as shown in FIG. 8.

This configuration is substantially the same in the first sprocket 14 or 114 and the second sprocket 16 or 116. Thus, here, the configuration will be described using the first tooth 232 a and the second tooth 232 b of the first sprockets 14 and 114.

The chain roller 2 c can be engaged between the first tooth 232 a and the second tooth 232 b (refer to FIGS. 1 and 5). As shown in FIG. 8, each of the first tooth 232 a and the second tooth 232 b comprises a drive surface 233 and a non-drive surface 234.

Since this configuration is substantially the same in the first tooth 232 a and the second tooth 232 b, here, a description will be given using the first teeth 232 a.

Each of the first tooth 232 a and the second tooth 232 b comprises a front surface 20 a, a back surface (not shown), a drive surface 233 and a non-drive surface 234. The back surface 20 b is a surface on the opposite side of the front surface 20 a in the axial direction of the rotational center axis X (the direction in FIG. 8 perpendicular to the paper surface).

The drive surface 233 is a surface that couples the front surface 20 a and the back surface in the axial direction, to a downstream side in the forward rotation direction R. The drive surface 233 comprises a contact point CP and a first extension portion 233 a (an example of a drive surface extension portion). The contact point CP is where the chain roller 2 c comes into contact. Specifically, the contact point CP is where the chain roller 2 c comes into contact with the drive surface 233 at the time of driving.

The first extension portion 233 a is formed integrally with the drive surface 233. The first extension portion 233 a extends in the circumferential direction radially outward from the contact point CP. Specifically, the first extension portion 233 a protrudes towards the downstream side in the forward rotation direction radially outward from the contact portion CP.

The non-drive surface 234 is a surface that couples the front surface 20 a and the back surface in the axial direction, to an upstream side in the forward rotation direction R. For example, the non-drive surface 234 is formed in line symmetry with the drive surface 233 with respect to a straight line CL that connects the rotational center axis X and the center position of the first tooth 232 a (second tooth 232 b) in the circumferential direction. The non-drive surface 234 can be formed unsymmetrically relative to the drive surface 233 with respect to the straight line CL that connects the rotational center axis X and the center position of the first tooth 232 a (second tooth 232 b) in the circumferential direction.

The non-drive surface 234 comprises a second extension portion 234 a (an example of a non-drive surface extension portion). The radially outward movement of the chain roller 2 c is suppressed by the second extension portion 234 a. The second extension portion 234 a is formed integrally with the non-drive surface 234. Here, since the non-drive surface 234 is formed in line symmetry with the drive surface 233, the second extension portion 234 a extends to the opposite side of the first extension portion 233 a in the circumferential direction. That is, the second extension portion 234 a extends in a circumferential direction, for example, toward the upstream side in the forward rotation direction R.

Accordingly, the drive force of the first sprocket 14 can by reliably transmitted to the chain roller 2 c, that is, the chain 2, by the drive surface 233. Further, the radially outward movement of the chain roller 2 c can be reliably suppressed by the drive surface 233 and the non-drive surface 234.

Here, a case was shown as an example in which each of the first tooth 232 a and the second tooth 232 b comprises the drive surface 233 and the non-drive surface 234. Instead of this, the configuration can be such that only the first tooth 232 a, or only the second tooth 232 b comprise a drive surface 233 and a non-drive surface 234. Further, the first tooth 232 a and/or the second tooth 232 b can be configured to comprise only a drive surface 233, or only anon-drive surface 234.

(d) In the first and second embodiments, an example in which the front sprocket 14 and 16 are immovably mounted to the crankshaft 19 via the crank arm 12 was shown. Instead of this, the front sprockets 14 and 16 can move along the crankshaft 19 (rotational center axis X). Further, only a single front sprocket 14 can be used, where the front sprocket 14 moves along the crankshaft 19 (rotational center axis X) such as in the case of the front sprocket of the bicycle crank assembly that is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0274253A1.

(e) An outline of the front sprockets 14 and 16 shown in the above first and second embodiments can be formed by a 3D printer, after which the second tooth 32 b and the fourth tooth 42 b are formed by press working, such as forging.

(f) In the first and second embodiments described above, an example in which the first tooth 32 a or 132 a and the third tooth 42 a or 142 a are formed in a substantially + shape was shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, at least a portion of the first tooth 32 a and the third tooth 42 a can be of another shape, such as a rhombic shape, a trapezoidal shape, a triangular shape, a hexagonal shape, or an octagonal shape.

As shown in FIG. 10, first tooth 332 a and/or third tooth 342 a are preferably of an octagonal shape, as seen from the radial direction of the bicycle sprocket to minimize interference between the first tooth 332 a and/or the third tooth 342 a and the inner link plates 2 b. In this case, excessive interference between the first tooth 332 a and/or the third tooth 342 a and the inner link plates 2 b can be avoided, and a tooth-shape for securely holding the outer link plates 2 a can be easily formed by press working, such as forging.

Here, an octagonal shape is not limited to a regular octagon shape, and may be any shape that has eight sides. Further, the eight sides that constitute the octagon are not limited to straight lines, and may be curved lines having a gentle curvature.

Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, when the first tooth 332 a and the third tooth 342 a are of the octagonal shape described above, the first tooth 332 a and the third tooth 342 a comprise a first surface 352 a, a second surface 352 b, a third surface 352 c and an inclined portion 353.

The first surface 352 a is a surface of the first tooth 332 a on the first side surface 14 a side of the first sprocket 14, and a surface of the third tooth 342 a on the third side surface 16 a of the second sprocket 16.

The second surface 352 b is a surface of the first teeth 332 a on the second side surface 14 b of the first sprocket 14, and a surface of the third tooth 342 a on the fourth side surface 16 b of the second sprocket 16.

The third surface 352 c extends in the circumferential direction between the axial directions of the first surface 352 a and the second surface 352 b. The third surface 352 c comprises a drive surface 352 d, a non-drive surface 352 e and a distal end surface 352 f that couples the drive surface 352 d and the non-drive surface 352 e in the circumferential direction. The inclined portion 353 is configured to minimize (avoid excessive) interference with the inner link plates 2 b. The inclined portion 353 comprises a first chamfered surface 353 a, a second chamfered surface 353 b, a third chamfered surface 353 c and a fourth chamfered surface 353 d.

The first chamfered surface 353 a is formed to extend from the first surface 352 a to the third surface 352 c on the drive side. The second chamfered surface 353 b is formed to extend from the second surface 352 b to the third surface 352 c on the drive side. The third chamfered surface 353 c is formed to extend from the first surface 352 a to the third surface 352 c on the non-drive side. The fourth chamfered surface 353 d is formed to extend from the second surface 352 b to the third surface 352 c on the non-drive side.

In other words, the first chamfered surface 353 a is formed in a corner portion formed by the first surface 352 a and the third surface 352 c on the drive side. The second chamfered surface 353 b is formed in corner portions formed by the second surface 352 b and the third surface 352 c on the drive side. The third chamfered surface 353 c is formed in corner portions formed by the first surface 352 a and the third surface 352 c on the non-drive side. The fourth chamfered surface 353 d is formed in corner portions formed by the second surface 352 b and the third surface 352 c on the non-drive side.

Here, the first tooth 332 a and the third tooth 342 a on the drive side, compared to the non-drive side, tend to more excessively interfere with the inner link plates 2 b. Therefore, the first chamfered surface 353 a and the second chamfered surface 353 b, which are formed on the drive side, preferably have a larger area compared to the third chamfered surface 353 c and the fourth chamfered surface 353 d, which are formed on the non-drive side.

Excessive interference of the first tooth 332 a and the third tooth 342 a with the inner link plates 2 b can be avoided by the first through fourth chamfered surfaces 353 a, 353 b, 353 c and 353 d. Further, the first through fourth chamfered surfaces 353 a, 353 b, 353 c and 353 d have a different shape from the recess in the above first and second embodiments, are inclined surfaces formed of straight or gently curved lines, and thus are easily formed by press working, such as forging.

Further, when the first tooth 332 a and the third tooth 342 a have an octagonal shape, a first axial direction contact width L3 of where the drive surface of the first tooth 332 a and the third tooth 342 a make contact with the chain roller 2 c is preferably formed to be of substantially the same length as a second axial direction contact width L4 of where the drive surface of the second tooth 332 b and the fourth tooth 342 b make contact with the chain roller 2 c.

(g) In the first and second embodiments described above, an example in which the first tooth 32 a or 132 a are formed in a substantially T-shape was shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a portion of the first tooth 32 a can be of another shape, such as a rhombic shape, a trapezoidal shape, a triangular shape, a hexagonal shape, or an octagonal shape.

(h) In the first and second embodiments described above, each of the first shift regions 34 comprises one of the second protrusions 36 b, but the second protrusions 36 b do not have to be provided.

(i) In the first and second embodiments described above, the number of the plurality of sprocket attaching arms 24 is four, but the number of the sprocket attaching arms is not limited to four.

(j) In the first and second embodiments described above, the first sprocket 14 can comprise a − (minus sign) shaped second tooth 32 b in the first shift regions 34, and the second sprocket 16 can comprise a − (minus sign) shaped fourth tooth 42 b in the second shift regions 44.

(k) In the second embodiment described above, an example was shown in which the additional portion of the first tooth 32 a is made of metal, but the additional portion may be non-metallic. For example, when the additional portion is non-metallic, this additional portion is attached to the first tooth by bonding or integral molding. In this case, the noise caused during pedaling caused by contact between the chain and the sprocket teeth making can be reduced.

(l) At least one of the first tooth 32 a or 132 a or the second tooth 32 b or 132 b of the bicycle sprocket of the present invention can preferably comprise a plated layer.

For example, when the first teeth 32 a or 132 a and the second teeth 32 b or 132 b are made of aluminum, the plated layer is preferably a nickel plated layer, for the purpose of wear resistance. Further, when the first teeth 32 a or 132 a and the second teeth 32 b or 132 b are made of iron, the plated layer is preferably a nickel chrome plated layer, for the purpose of rust resistance.

Meanwhile, when the first tooth 32 a or 132 a and the second tooth 32 b or 132 b are made of iron, the tooth teeth 32 a or 132 a and the second tooth 32 b or 132 b, preferably comprise an electrodeposition coating layer, for the purpose of rust resistance and coloring.

(m) In the first and second embodiments described above, an example was shown in which the first sprocket 14 is configured to form the first sprocket body 30 made of synthetic resin, the first annular portion 31 and the first tooth portion 32 b made of metal.

Alternatively, the first sprocket 14 can be configured from metal, and the first sprocket body 30, the first annular portion 31, and the first tooth portion 32 b can be integrally molded. In this case, the first sprocket body 30, the first annular portion 31, and the first tooth portion 32 b are formed of metal, such as aluminum, titanium, or iron/stainless steel.

An example of the first sprocket 314 configured in this way is shown in FIG. 11. The configuration in FIG. 11 is substantially the same as the first and second embodiments described above, and the typical configurations are given the same reference symbols as the first embodiment.

(n) Instead of the first sprocket 14 or 114 of the first and second embodiments described above, a first sprocket 214 can be configured as shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B. Meanwhile, in FIGS. 12A and 12B, configurations that are substantially the same as the first and second embodiments described above are given the same reference symbols as the first embodiment.

In the first sprocket 214, a first through-hole 130 a is provided to the first sprocket body 30. Further, a second through-hole 130 b is provided to the first annular portion 31. A ring member 130 c, such as a washer, is disposed in the first through-hole 130 a. Specifically, the first sprocket body 30 is integrally molded with the first annular portion 31 and the ring member 130 c, so that the inner perimeter surface of the ring member 130 c is substantially flush with the inner perimeter surface of the second through-hole 130 b.

When the first sprocket 214 is configured in this way, one of the first fixing bolts 26 is inserted into each of the ring members 130 c, each of the second through-holes 130 b, and each of the first attaching portions 24 a, and is then screwed to a nut member (not shown). With this, the first sprocket body 30 is fixed to the sprocket attaching arms 24.

(o) In the first and second embodiments described above, an example was shown in which the second tooth 32 b of the first sprocket 14 are formed by press working, such as forging, together with the first recess 32 e. Instead of this, as shown in part (A) of FIG. 13-part (D) of FIG. 13, the second tooth 32 b can be formed by press working (such as forging) and a cutting process. In part (A) of FIG. 13-part (D) of FIG. 13, each step is schematically represented for ease of description.

In this case, the second tooth 32 b are formed by a first pressing step (refer to part (B) of FIG. 13), a cutting step (refer to part (C) of FIG. 13) after the first pressing step, and a second pressing step (refer to part (D) of FIG. 13) after the cutting step.

As shown in part (D) of FIG. 13, the second tooth 32 b comprise a fifth surface 52 a (an example of a first surface) and a sixth surface 52 b (an example of a first surface). For example, the fifth surface 52 a is formed on the second tooth 32 a, on the first side surface 14 a (refer to FIG. 2) of the first sprocket 14. The sixth surface 52 b is a surface that is located on the opposite side of the fifth surface 52 a in an axial direction parallel to the rotational center axis X. For example, the sixth surface 52 b is formed on the second tooth 32 b, on the second side surface 14 b (refer to FIG. 4) of the first sprocket 14.

Specifically, as shown in part (A) of FIG. 13, in the initial state, the surface on which the fifth surface 52 a of the second tooth 32 b is formed (first pressing portion 152 a described below) and the surface on which the sixth surface 52 b is formed (second pressing portion 152 c described below) are formed on substantially the same surface as the outer surface of the first annular portion 31 of the first sprocket 14.

A first pressing step is a process for pressing the fifth surface 52 a of the second tooth 32 b. As shown in part (B) of FIG. 13, in the first pressing step, with the first annular portion 31 in a fixed state, the fifth surface 52 a of the second tooth 32 b is pressed by a pressing member A of a pressing device (not shown).

Here, the first pressing portion 152 a where the pressing member A presses, is the portion where the second tooth 32 b and the first recess 32 e are formed. In this way, when the pressing member A presses the first pressing portion 152 a, the fifth surface 52 a of the second tooth portion 32 b is formed, and a portion on the sixth surface 52 b protrudes, which is located substantially on the opposite side of the first pressing portion 152 a. Hereinafter, this portion will be referred to as the protrusion 152 b.

The cutting step is a process for cutting the protrusion 152 b, which protrudes in the axial direction due to the first pressing step, on the sixth surface 52 b of the second tooth 32 b. As shown in part (C) of FIG. 13, in the cutting step, the protrusion 152 b formed on the sixth surface 52 b is cut by a cutting device B. Specifically, the protrusion 152 b is cut by the cutting device B so that the surface remaining after cutting is substantially the same surface as the outer surface of the first annular portion 31.

A second pressing step is a step for pressing the sixth surface 52 b side of the second tooth 32 b. As shown in part (D) of FIG. 13, in the second pressing step, in a state in which a mold D for forming the outer shape of the second tooth 32 b is abutting the first pressing portion 152 a, the sixth surface 52 b side of the second tooth 32 b is pressed by a pressing member C of the pressing device.

Here, the second pressing portion 152 c where the pressing member C presses, is the portion where the tooth teeth 32 b and the first recess 32 e are formed. In this way, when the pressing member C presses the second pressing portion 152 c, the sixth surface 52 b of the second tooth portion 32 b is formed. Further, the teeth edge 52 c of the second tooth portion 32 b as well as the fifth surface 52 a and the sixth surface 52 b are formed.

As described above, the second tooth 32 b can be formed by using the first pressing step, the cutting step and the second pressing step. Meanwhile, after the second tooth 32 b are formed in the above way, a polishing step for adjusting the shape of the second tooth 32 b, and a plating step (preferably, a nickel plating process) for improving the wear resistance of the second tooth 32 b can be added selectively.

Here, an example was shown in which the second tooth 32 b are formed by press working and a cutting process, but the fourth tooth 42 b of the second sprocket 16 can be formed in the same way as well.

(p) in the first and second embodiments and the other embodiments described above, front sprockets 14 and 16 were shown as examples of a bicycle sprocket, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The present invention can be applied to a rear sprocket as well.

The present invention can be widely applied to bicycle sprockets and bicycle sprocket assemblies.

In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term “comprising” and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, “including”, “having” and their derivatives. Also, the terms “part,” “section,” “portion,” “member” or “element” when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts unless otherwise stated.

Also it will be understood that although the terms “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various components these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another. Thus, for example, a first component discussed above could be termed a second component and vice versa without departing from the teachings of the present invention. The term “attached” or “attaching”, as used herein, encompasses configurations in which an element is directly secured to another element by affixing the element directly to the other element; configurations in which the element is indirectly secured to the other element by affixing the element to the intermediate member(s) which in turn are affixed to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integral with another element, i.e. one element is essentially part of the other element. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, “joined”, “connected”, “coupled”, “mounted”, “bonded”, “fixed” and their derivatives. Finally, terms of degree such as “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean an amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed.

While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless specifically stated otherwise, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and/or desired so long as the changes do not substantially affect their intended function. Unless specifically stated otherwise, components that are shown directly connected or contacting each other can have intermediate structures disposed between them so long as the changes do not substantially affect their intended function. The functions of one element can be performed by two, and vice versa unless specifically stated otherwise. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Every feature which is unique from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, also should be considered a separate description of further inventions by the applicant, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such feature(s). Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. 

What is claimed:
 1. A bicycle sprocket having a rotational center axis, the bicycle sprocket comprising: a first tooth having a first axial chain engaging width that is smaller than a first axial spacing of an outer link and larger than a second axial spacing of an inner link coupled to the outer link, and a second tooth having a second axial chain engaging width that is smaller than the second axial spacing, the second tooth being formed by deformation of a material constituting the second tooth.
 2. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 1, wherein the second tooth is formed by press working.
 3. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 1, wherein the first tooth includes a recess configured to minimize interference with the inner link, and the recess is formed by press working.
 4. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 1, wherein the first tooth includes a recess configured to minimize interference with the inner link, and the recess is formed by a cutting process.
 5. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 1, wherein the first tooth comprises a main body portion and an additional portion, the additional portion is attached to the main body portion to increase a width of the main body portion, and the first axial chain engaging width is obtained by attaching the additional portion to the main body portion.
 6. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 5, wherein the additional portion is made of metal and attached to the main body portion of the first tooth by one of bonding, diffusion bonding, swaging and casting.
 7. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 5, wherein the additional portion is non-metallic and attached to the main body portion of the first tooth by one of bonding and integral molding.
 8. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 1, wherein each of the first tooth and the second tooth comprises a drive surface that has a contact point where a chain roller contacts and a drive surface extension portion that extends in a circumferential direction radially outward from the contact point of the drive surface.
 9. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 8, wherein each of the first tooth and the second tooth further comprises a non-drive surface, and a non-drive surface extension portion that extends in the circumferential direction from the non-drive surface to suppress radially outward movement of the chain roller.
 10. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 1, wherein each of the first tooth and the second tooth comprises a drive surface that has a contact point where a chain roller contacts and a drive surface extension portion that extends in a circumferential direction radially outward from the contact point of the drive surface, and each of the first tooth and the second tooth comprises a non-drive surface and a non-drive surface extension portion that extends in the circumferential direction to suppress the radially outward movement of a chain roller.
 11. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 1, further comprising a shift region configured to shift the chain during gear shifting.
 12. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 1, further comprising an annular portion made of metal to which the first tooth and the second tooth are provided on an outer perimeter thereof, and a non-metallic main body portion attached to an inner peripheral part of the annular portion.
 13. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 2, wherein the press working is forging.
 14. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 1, wherein the second tooth is formed by press working and a cutting process.
 15. The bicycle sprocket according to claims 1, wherein the second tooth is formed by a first pressing step, a cutting step after the first pressing step, and a second pressing step after the cutting step.
 16. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 15, wherein the second tooth comprises a first surface and a second surface, the first and second surfaces are oppositely facing with respect to an axial direction parallel to the rotational center axis, the first pressing step is a process for pressing the first surface of the second tooth, and the second pressing step is a process for pressing the second surface of the second tooth.
 17. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 16, wherein the cutting step is a process for cutting a protruding portion, which protrudes in the axial direction due to the first pressing step, on the second surface of the second tooth.
 18. A bicycle sprocket having a rotational center axis, the bicycle sprocket comprising: a first tooth having a first axial chain engaging width of that is smaller than a first axial spacing of an outer link and larger than a second axial spacing of an inner link coupled to the outer link, and a second tooth having a second axial chain engaging width that is smaller than the second axial spacing, the first tooth having a substantially octagonal shape as seen from a radially outer side.
 19. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 18, wherein each of the first tooth and the second tooth has a drive surface that is configured to contact a chain roller, each of the drive surfaces of the first tooth and the second tooth has an axial direction contact width with substantially the same length.
 20. A bicycle sprocket having a rotational center axis, the bicycle sprocket comprising: a first tooth having a first axial chain engaging width that is smaller than a first axial spacing of an outer link and larger than a second axial spacing of an inner link coupled to the outer link, and a second tooth having a second axial chain engaging width that is smaller than the second axial spacing, at least one of the first tooth comprising an inclined portion configured to minimize interference with the inner link.
 21. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 20, wherein the first tooth further comprises a first surface, a second surface and a third surface that extends in a circumferential direction in between the first surface and the second surface with respect to axial direction that is parallel to the rotational center axis, and the inclined portion comprises a first chamfered surface that extends from the first surface to the third surface on the drive side, a second chamfered surface that extends from the second surface to the third surface on the drive side, a third chamfered surface that extends from the first surface to the third surface on the non-drive side, and a fourth chamfered surface that extends from the second surface to the third surface on the non-drive side.
 22. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 20, wherein each of the first tooth and the second tooth has a drive surface that is arranged to contact a chain roller, the drive surfaces of the first and second teeth have an axial direction contact width with substantially the same length.
 23. A bicycle sprocket having a rotational center axis, the bicycle sprocket comprising: a first tooth having a first axial chain engaging width that is smaller than a first axial spacing of an outer link and larger than a second axial spacing of an inner link coupled to the outer link, and a second tooth having a second axial chain engaging width that is smaller than the second axial spacing, at least one of the first tooth and the second tooth comprising a plated layer.
 24. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 23, wherein the first tooth and the second tooth are made of aluminum, and the plated layer is a nickel plated layer.
 25. The bicycle sprocket according to claim 23, wherein the first tooth and the second tooth are made of iron, and the plated layer is a nickel chrome plated layer.
 26. A bicycle sprocket assembly comprising the bicycle sprocket according to claim
 1. 27. The bicycle sprocket assembly according to claim 26, wherein the sprocket is a single front sprocket.
 28. The bicycle sprocket assembly according to claim 27, wherein the sprocket is movable around the rotational center axis.
 29. The bicycle sprocket assembly according to claim 26, further comprising at least one additional front sprocket.
 30. The bicycle sprocket assembly according to claim 29, wherein the sprocket is movable along the rotational center axis.
 31. The bicycle sprocket assembly according to claim 26, wherein the sprocket is a rear sprocket. 